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DictionarythrumLow humming sound
noun / verb

thrum

THRUM/θrʌm/

A continuous low humming or vibrating sound, or to produce it.

The running ventilation fan thrums with a steady low vibration.

A large running ventilation fan thrums: broad rotating blades and a subtly vibrating housing are paired with a nearby listener who both hears and feels its steady vibration.
Etymology
thrumEnglisha monotonous humming sound

An imitative humming word, early associated with repetitive string-playing. Its deeper relationship to loose thread ends is uncertain.

More examples

  • The refrigerator thrums softly in the corner.
  • We fell asleep to the steady thrum of rain.
  • The pipes thrummed as water flowed through them.

Forms

thrum · thrums · thrummed · thrumming

Similar words

hum
Hum emphasizes a steady tone rather than noticeable vibration.
buzz
Buzz suggests a sharper, often higher-pitched sound than thrum.
drone
Drone emphasizes monotonous persistence more than a vibrating quality.